County council struggling to fix Preston’s pothole-ridden roads

Lancashire County Council has been named as one of the poorest authorities to deal with potholes.

A list has been compiled by the National Cycling Organisation CTC of authorities across the UK dealing with roads and highways. They have been rated on success of repairing damages to roads, mainly potholes.

Tim Ashton, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “I acknowledge that our highways are not in perfect condition. There’s no doubt that the bad winters we have had lately are causing more damage to the roads than usual.”

The league table at www.fillthathole.org.uk, ranks councils on how many reports they have received through their websites on the matter and how they respond.

It is advertised that Lancashire has received 960 reports, 501 of these are still standing open. Only 47 per cent across the county have been fixed.

Cllr Ashton explains highway staff are doing all they can to improve our roads: “They have stepped up their game and are using the latest techniques and technology to make sure we repair potholes more efficently than ever before.”

Councillor Terry Cartwright, Deepdale Independent, said: “I understand that pothole reports go on a list and are done on priority, worst first. Bad weather breaking up roads combined with a new government making cut backs is not helping, the county are doing their best.”

In contrast to Lancashire topping the charts is Chester West and Chester. With a total of 210 reports they have dealt with 197 of them.